The ​​bakery-café chain just announced that it will roll out a myriad of sweeping menu changes at restaurants nationwide on April 4. The transformed menu will include brand-new items, new-and-improved versions of old favorites, and "enhanced portions," according to a press release shared with Eat This, Not That! 

"We are getting back to Panera at its best with these menu updates that are centered completely on our guests and what they love about us," Alicia Mowder, Panera's senior vice president of Product Strategy & Insights, said in a statement. "We've listened to thousands of guests on our path to unveiling more than 20 new or enhanced menu items and are thrilled to bring these products to Panera bakery-cafés nationwide."

RELATED: I Tried 8 Baked Goods at Panera & the Best Was Big, Sweet, and Gooey

Brand-New Panera Menu Items

Nine total new menu items—including sandwiches, hearty salads, and a new spin on the classic Mac & Cheese—will debut in early April: 

• Toasted Italiano: Black Forest ham, soppressata, provolone, romaine, red onion, sliced pepperoncini peppers, garlic aioli, and Greek dressing on Panera's toasted French Baguette.
• Chicken Bacon Rancher: Grilled chicken, applewood smoked bacon, aged white cheddar, and ranch dressing on Black Pepper Focaccia.
• Ciabatta Cheesesteak: tender sliced steak, provolone, garlic aioli, caramelized onions, and Peppadew peppers on Ciabatta.
• Tomato Basil BLT: Applewood smoked bacon, crisp mixed greens, vine-ripened tomatoes, garlic aioli, salt, and pepper on Tomato Basil Miche bread.
• Mediterranean Chicken Greens with Grains: Romaine and crisp mixed greens tossed in Greek Dressing and topped with a blend of farro and red rice, grilled chicken, hummus, feta, red onions, Peppadew peppers, sliced cucumbers, and a sprinkle of Panera's Mediterranean shawarma seasoning.
• Southwest Chicken Ranch: A salad featuring romaine, grilled chicken, fresh avocado, grape tomatoes, fire-grilled corn, fresh cilantro, blue corn tortilla strips, ranch dressing, and chipotle aioli.
• Balsamic Chicken Greens with Grains: Romaine and crisp mixed greens tossed in balsamic vinaigrette and topped with a blend of farro and red rice, sliced cucumbers, sliced pepperoncini peppers, fresh avocado, feta, pumpkin seeds, and a drizzle of Green Goddess dressing.
• Ranch Cobb Salad: Romaine and crisp mixed greens with grape tomatoes, pickled red onions, applewood smoked bacon, feta, a hard-boiled egg, and ranch dressing.
• Bacon Mac & Cheese: Tender shell pasta combined with a blend of rich cheeses, including Panera's tangy aged white cheddar sauce, and topped with applewood smoked bacon. 

Some new menu additions like the Tomato Basil BLT and Ranch Cobb Salad will have suggested prices under $10, increasing the number of lower-priced options at Panera. 

Revamped Panera Menu Items

On top of debuting brand-new items, Panera has also revamped 12 classic menu items with enhanced recipes "packed with even more delicious flavors that guests will love," the release said. The Bravo Club Sandwich, Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt, and Fuji Apple Chicken Salad are among the 12 recipes that have been improved. Additionally, the chain also plans to include more chicken and steak on many of its salads and sandwiches.

RELATED: I Tried Every Soup at Panera & One Can't Be Beat

Customers will also see some existing options eliminated from the menu come April 3. A Panera representative confirmed to Eat This, Not That! that the chain plans to eliminate some menu categories, including its flatbread pizzas, so that it can refocus on its core offerings of soups, salad, sandwiches, and mac & cheese. The impending retirement of some menu items doesn't come as a complete surprise since Panera tested a smaller, streamlined menu at select locations over the summer of 2023.

Panera fans should stay tuned for more details on these upcoming menu changes since the chain plans to share additional updates throughout March. Members of the chain's MyPanera rewards program will also get "exclusive sneak peeks" ahead of the April launch, according to the release.

RELATED: The 15 Healthiest Menu Items at Panera

"Panera's New Era is incredibly exciting, not only for our guests, but also our associates, who will be able to renew their focus on our core menu and serve our guests more efficiently with enhanced portions and better value," Debbie Roberts, Panera's chief operating officer, said in a statement. "We are eager to get back to our roots within these core categories and unveil these delicious new menu innovations, all while providing an exceptional guest experience."

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The post Panera Just Announced Its 'Biggest Menu Transformation' Ever—Here's What's Changing appeared first on Eat This Not That.

Major fast-food chains and sit-down eateries alike have already announced a myriad of special offers that customers can cash in on come tomorrow, Feb. 29. The deals range from tantalizing freebies to menu item discounts to opportunities to score extra rewards points for chain restaurant loyalty programs.

Read on for details on the 15 best restaurant deals you won't want to miss this Leap Day—and how you can take advantage of them!

Chipotle

Adding guacamole to your Chipotle order will usually cost you extra, but the chain will offer the add-on free of charge on Leap Day. The deal is only available to customers who order a full-priced entrée through the Chipotle app or website on Feb. 29. Those who apply the code EXTRA24 at checkout can receive either a small side of guac or top their meal with guac for free.

RELATED: 8 Healthiest Chipotle Orders, According to Dietitians

Krispy Kreme

If your birthday happens to fall on Leap Day, you can score a dozen of Krispy Kreme's Original Glazed doughnuts free of charge on Feb, 29, no purchase required. Customers will need to show proof of their birthday and redeem the offer in stores or at the drive-thru.

The dessert chain also has another deal lined up for customers who won't be celebrating their birthdays on Feb. 29. Those who purchase any full-price dozen can also score an additional dozen Original Glazed doughnuts for $2.29 in a nod to Leap Day's "2/29" date.  The deal will be available in stores, online, and at the drive-thru.

Smoothie King

Because Leap Day falls on the 29th day of February, Smoothie King customers can score 29% off their smoothies this Thursday. The offer will only be available to customers who spend $15 or more through the Smoothie King app. Additionally, the discount will only be valid for smoothies that are 20 ounces or larger.

Burger King

Members of Burger King's Royal Perks loyalty program can earn four times the Crowns, or rewards points, when they make a purchase through the app or website on Feb. 29. Customers who rack up enough Crowns can use them to score freebies at Burger King, including burgers, fries, and beverages.

RELATED: All of Burger King's Burgers & Sandwiches—Ranked by a Dietitian

Taco Bell

Taco Bell Rewards members can score the fan-favorite Crunchwrap Supreme for just $2.29 on Leap Day. The menu item currently costs $5.49 at a Taco Bell in my area (though prices could vary at other locations), so customers who take advantage of the deal can potentially save a few dollars. This offer will only be available through the Taco Bell app and is limited to one per user.

Dunkin'

Dunkin's customers can snag a medium Cinnamon Vanilla Coffee for just $2 when they order through the chain's app on Feb. 29. Rewards members can also earn four times the points on all app orders on Leap Day.

RELATED: Every Dunkin' Drink—Ranked by Sugar Content

Wendy's

Wendy's made an exciting new addition to its breakfast lineup when it launched its new Cinnabon Pull-Apart on Feb. 26. This Thursday, Wendy's customers can sample the new offering completely free of charge, no purchase required. The offer will be available during breakfast hours on Feb. 29 while supplies last. Drive-thru customers can snag one free Cinnabon Pull-Apart per vehicle, while dine-in customers can score one per transaction.

Salad and Go

Salad and Go—a drive-thru chain with locations in Arizona, Nevada, Oklahoma, and Texas—will be able to add free avocado to any breakfast burrito, breakfast bowl, custom salad, or made-to-order wrap on Leap Day.

Customers who order online should apply the code "LEAPDAY" at checkout, while those who order at the drive-thru should mention the promotion to cash in on the offer. The deal will be available from 6:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. local time.

RELATED: The 10 Best Salad Chains In America

Round Table Pizza

Round Table Pizza—a regional pizza chain with locations in the West and South—will offer a $7 discount on large and extra-large pizzas for Leap Day. Customers looking to take advantage of the offer will have to mention the offer in person or apply the code LEAP7 when ordering through the app or website. The deal will only be available at participating locations, so make sure to check with your local Round Table Pizza to confirm whether they're offering the discount.

BJ's Restaurants and Brewhouse

BJ's Restaurants and Brewhouse customers can score the chain's signature dessert—the Pizookie—for just $2.29 on Feb. 29. The offer is only available to dine-in guests who spend $10 or more. Customers can apply the discount to any Pizookie flavor, from the Chocolate Chunk Pizookie to the Strawberry Shortcake Pizookie.

RELATED: I Tried the Cookie Skillet at 5 Restaurant Chains & Only One Is a Perfect Hit

Hungry Howie's

Hungry Howie's—a pizza chain with more than 530 locations across 21 states—is offering a special BOGO deal in honor of Leap Day. Customers who buy one large pizza can get a second one for just 29 cents. The offer is valid for carry-out customers from Feb. 26 through Feb. 29.

Yogurtland

The frozen yogurt chain Yogurtland will gift triple the points to members of its Real Rewards program who stop by on Feb. 29. The offer will be available for in-store and online customers.

BurgerFi

Like Krispy Kreme, BurgerFi also has a special deal lined up for customers celebrating their birthdays on Feb. 29. Customers who were born on Leap Day can score a 20% discount on their meal when they dine in. Guests will need to mention the offer at the register when they place their orders.

RELATED: 10 Regional Burger Chains You Have To Try At Least Once

Long John Silver's

Customers who spend $5 or more at Long John Silvers on Feb. 29 can a free piece of fish or chicken at participating locations. The offer will only be available to online customers who apply the code "LEAPDAY" at checkout.

Wings and Rings

Wings and Rings—a sports-themed restaurant chain with a few dozen locations throughout the United States—will give out five bonus wings to customers who order 10 wings on Feb. 29. The offer, which is limited to two per customer, will be available to dine-in and takeout guests at participating locations.

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The post The 15 Best Restaurant Deals You Can Score on Leap Day appeared first on Eat This Not That.

Using leafy greens as a vessel for meat or other fillings is a longstanding tradition in many Asian cultures, and it's catching on in the United States, especially as more consumers try to cut-out starchy carbs. Right now, many restaurant chains offer lettuce wrap options for customers looking to ditch the bread.

From Asian restaurants that serve build-it-yourself lettuce wraps you can share with the table to fast-food joints that serve leafy wrappers ideal for holding a burger together, there are many lettuce wrap options for customers.

Whether you're craving Asian-style lettuce wraps with savory dipping sauce or just in a pinch and trying to cut carbs, here are some restaurant chains that serve the best lettuce wraps.

P.F. Chang's

When you think of chain restaurant lettuce wraps, P.F. Chang's famous chicken lettuce wraps may spring to mind. As its website proudly proclaims, it is "a secret family recipe and our signature dish." Large leaves of lettuce are the perfect crunchy wrap for savory, simmered chicken breast and crispy rice noodles. Dip your wrap in the chain's signature sauce for a pleasant balance of sweet and savory. You can order a vegetarian version of the lettuce wraps with tofu, and the dish can be made gluten-free upon request.

RELATED: 6 Restaurant Chains That Serve the Best Wraps

Shake Shack

The East Coast-born chain known for its "never frozen, 100% Angus beef" and handcrafted milkshakes offers the option of putting your burger on a lettuce wrap. Though the chain has had a Veggie Shack menu for lettuce-wrapped burgers since 2018 as a gluten-free option, Shake Shack's lettuce wraps went viral recently on TikTok when TikToker @catchingupwithcaitlin posted a video of her surprise at the lettuce-y offering. Though somewhat consternated, she clearly enjoyed the wrap, and she added in the comment section that "it was actually really good, just a lot." As many of the TikTok comments point out, Shake Shack lettuce wraps use good quality lettuce that appears crisp and juicy.

In-N-Out Burger

Whether you prefer Shake Shack or its California-born rival, In-N-Out Burger, may largely depend on the coast where you grew up, but even diehard In-N-Out fans may be surprised to know that In-N-Out was one of the pioneers of swapping lettuce for a bun. The chain has had the option of lettuce-wrapped burgers (ask for any burger "protein style") since the inception of its not-so-secret secret menu in 1955, when founder Harry Snyder began eating burgers on lettuce and put it on the secret menu. One popular secret menu hack is the "Flying Dutchman," which consists of two beef patties sandwiched around two cheese slices. To avoid getting your fingers dirty by directly holding the patties, get the Flying Dutchman protein-style!

RELATED: 4 Fast-Food Chains That Serve The Best "Snack Wrap"

Cheesecake Factory

The Cheesecake Factory is like the Trader Joe's of restaurant chains. Its enormous menu draws from a huge range of cuisines, from Mexican street corn and avocado egg rolls to shrimp scampi and Thai chicken lettuce wraps. These build-your-own Thai lettuce wraps come with satay chicken strips, coconut curry noodles, bean sprouts, carrots, and lettuce leaves. You can replace the chicken with avocado for a vegetarian option, and the dish come with three spicy Thai sauces for dipping: sweet red chili, peanut, and tamarind-cashew. With multiple Reddit forums full of dedicated fans, many of whom attempt (to varying degrees of success) to replicate the dipping sauces, The Cheesecake Factory has a hit on its hands.

Five Guys

Five Guys is another burger joint where bun replacement is no problem. Redditors love its lettuce wrap option, and at the chain, a whole host of extra toppings (from jalapenos to grilled mushrooms) are free. That's great news, as one blogger who lauded the lettuce wraps also recommends getting grilled onions: "The grilled onions are perfectly cooked and in my opinion what sets Five Guys apart from all the other burger joints." Five Guys uses a crunchier, thicker iceberg lettuce for its wraps. They might not be as large as those used by Shake Shack, but iceberg adds the crunch factor. "Even when I'm not doing keto, I love the lettuce wrap. So much crunch!" says one Redditor.

RELATED: 11 Delicious Burgers You Can Only Order Off 'Secret Menus'

Hardee's

Fast-food chain Hardee's is known for its biscuit sandwiches, onion rings, and burgers, and for the more carb-conscious, it offers lettuce wraps in lieu of burger buns—ask for your burger to be "low carb." The North Carolina-born chain began offering a lettuce wrap option for all of their burgers in 2020, with popular choices being the guacamole bacon Thickburger lettuce wrap laden with plenty of guac and bacon, as well as the mushroom and Swiss burger with a quarter-pound 100% Angus beef patty topped with melted Swiss and mushroom sauce. "I love Hardee's Mushroom Swiss burger as a low-carb lettuce wrap," raves one Redditor.

Pei Wei Asian Kitchen

Pei Wei Asian Kitchen touts itself as a fast-service alternative to less healthy strip-mall Pan-Asian fare, specializing in made-to-order dishes that "use only the freshest, house-chopped vegetables and whole cuts of white-meat chicken and flank steak." Its signature chicken lettuce wraps are designed to be shared with the table and combine Chinese-inspired flavors with the freshness of lettuce cups. The lettuce wraps consist of chicken ground in-house with scallions, shiitake mushrooms, garlic, and water chestnuts, all wok-tossed in a savory sauce and served over lettuce cups and crispy rice sticks. Yelp reviews say things like "I highly recommend the lettuce wraps" and "The lettuce wraps were OMGGG!!"

Mooyah

Texas-born burger chain Mooyah serves up southern hospitality and high-quality burgers at more than 80 locations around the U.S. Since the chain has always been a build-your-own burger concept (with plenty of decadent recommendations from the Burger Hall of Dang for those who suffer from indecision), it's no surprise that it offers the Iceburger option of building your burger on a lettuce wrap. Unlike some lettuce-wrap burgers that skimp on the lettuce and can disintegrate into a salad, Mooyah's Iceburgers come on thick, crunchy wedges of iceberg lettuce that hold the wrap together well. Extra hungry? Try the Paleo Iceburger with double certified Angus beef, applewood smoked bacon, avocado, pickles, onions, and tomatoes. "If you can ever find Mooyah try an Iceburger. Thickest best burger lettuce wrap ever," raves one Redditor.

Sonic

If you're on a road trip and craving the crunch of a lettuce wrap or looking for low-carb alternatives without having to get out of your car, drive-through fast food chain Sonic offers the option of getting your burger wrapped in lettuce (though it'd be hard to pass up those onion rings). You can't beat the convenience of a drive-through, and the chain also offers a large selection of sugar-free soft drink options. Healthy eating blog The Diet Doctor gave the bun-less double cheeseburger a solid review: "The burger itself tastes clean and good and the condiments do too. This is a quick, smaller lunch that will keep you going for a couple of hours."

Panera Bread

Though casual-dining chain Panera Bread references bread in its name, those in the know can order steak and veggie lettuce wraps—tell them you want to order from the secret menu and ask for Power Steak Lettuce Wraps. The do-it-yourself wraps feature seared top sirloin, diced red onions, tomatoes, and cucumbers, all topped with basil pesto and fresh-squeezed lemon juice and served with leaf lettuce for wrapping. The sirloin is juicy and tender, and the order comes with plenty of lettuce, so you won't get your hands dirty if you eat it wrap-style. Panera technically discontinued its secret menu, but according to Tasting Table, most restaurants will still serve secret menu items such as the lettuce wraps, as long as they're not out of ingredients.

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The post 10 Restaurant Chains That Serve the Best Lettuce Wraps appeared first on Eat This Not That.

The country-themed restaurant chain, known for its all-day breakfast and southern-style fare, just released its latest earnings report for the quarter that ended on Jan. 26. In a Feb. 27 call with investors where Cracker Barrel discussed its latest financial results, Chief Financial Officer Craig Pommells revealed that customer traffic dropped 4% during the quarter.

RELATED: The #1 Unhealthiest Cracker Barrel Order, According to a Dietitian

He added that the company expects "industry traffic to remain pressured for the remainder of the fiscal year." Other key takeaways from the quarter included a 1.2% increase in same-store sales, a 4.8% increase in menu prices, and a 5.3% drop in comparable sales for Cracker Barrel's in-restaurant gift shops.

Declining customer traffic has become a persistent issue for Cracker Barrel over the past year. The chain also lost customers during the four quarters that preceded the latest quarter, including a 7.1% drop in traffic during the period that ended on Oct. 27.

During previous earnings calls where Cracker Barrel discussed the traffic woes, company executives blamed the declines on factors like insufficient marketing, needed improvements in the guest experience, and a larger trend of consumers dining out less due to inflation.

Executives didn't offer any additional insight about why traffic has continued to fall during the Feb. 27 call. However, new CEO Julie Felss Masino did outline several ways in which the company hopes to win customers back and improve Cracker Barrel's overall performance and profitability.

One key part of this initiative is evolving the Cracker Barrel brand "to meet changing consumer tastes and needs," Masino said. The company has started testing changes to the interior design of its restaurants, such as adding new decor, lighting, and paint. Since the actual food is such a key part of what draws customers to restaurants, Cracker Barrel is also testing a major revamp of its core menu in select stores.

"This test includes approximately 20 new items, several modified items, and over 20 deletions, as we seek to balance our innovation with simplification," Masino explained.

RELATED: The 10 Best Cracker Barrel Dishes to Order, According to Dietitians

Meanwhile, Cracker Barrel also just debuted a new early dinner menu that features smaller versions of seven entrées, with prices starting at $8.99. Masino hopes that the new dine-in menu, which is available from 4 to 6 p.m. on weekdays, will draw in more "price-conscious" guests during a typically slow time of day.

Additionally, Cracker Barrel hopes to drive more customer visits through its new loyalty program that launched in September, as well as by focusing on store operations and execution to improve the guest experience.

"Obviously, there is a lot of work to do and it will not be quick or easy, but I am excited and optimistic about the path we are on," Masino said.

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The post Cracker Barrel Is Still Losing Customers—Here's How It Hopes to Win Them Back appeared first on Eat This Not That.

Diets high in sodium are associated with high blood pressure, which increases your risk of heart disease and stroke and can also affect other parts of your body, like your kidneys and your brain.

Thankfully, even at restaurants with the unhealthiest menu options, there are low-sodium orders you can enjoy. We worked with a team of registered dietitians to look at the menus of 25 national restaurant chains to find the best low-sodium order from each.

How much sodium is low-sodium?

The FDA defines the term "low sodium" as 140 milligrams of sodium or less for packaged foods, but there is no formal guidance as to what is considered "low sodium" at restaurants.

To put together this list of low-sodium restaurant chain meals, we limited entrees to a third of the daily recommended limit of sodium and sides to 20% of the daily limit. That came out to 760 milligrams of sodium for an entree and 460 milligrams of sodium for an individual item.

The 25 best low-sodium restaurant orders

Chili's Santa Fe Chicken Salad

The Santa Fe Chicken Salad at Chili's has 650 milligrams of sodium in a bowl, and is loaded with spicy chicken, fresh vegetables, and tortilla strips for a good balance of fiber, carbohydrates, and protein, explains Wan Na Chun, MPH, RD, CPT, owner of One Pot Wellness.  Asking for the ranch and Santa Fe sauce on the side can also help you take more control over how much sodium (and fat) you add to the salad.

RELATED: 21 Best Low-Sodium Fast-Food Orders

Olive Garden Spaghetti with Meat Sauce (Lunch-size)

The lunch menu's spaghetti with meat sauce is one of the few lower-sodium options at Olive Garden. Each serving has the pasta and tomato-based meat sauce you love but with only 530 milligrams of sodium, or 23% of the recommended daily value (DV).

Ruby Tuesday Loaded Baked Potato (without bacon)

The Loaded Baked Potato at Ruby Tuesday fits into a low-sodium diet as long as you skip the bacon on top. A baked potato topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, whipped butter, and scallions has just 420 milligrams of sodium and 15 grams of protein.

TGI Fridays Seasoned Fries

French fries can be loaded with sodium, but the seasoned fries at TGI Fridays are surprisingly one of the lowest sodium options at this Franchise. Each side of fries adds only 230 milligrams of sodium, or 10% DV, to your meal.

Friendly's Broccoli

Unfortunately, the only low-sodium food option on the menu at Friendly's is their side of steamed broccoli. This isn't to say you can't make a menu item low-sodium by removing items like dressings, cheese, bacon, and other high-sodium toppings, but as is, steamed broccoli wins as the best choice with just 48 milligrams of sodium.

RELATED: 10 Warning Signs You're Not Eating Enough Fiber

Cheesecake Factory Tossed Green Salad Appetizer

Their tossed green salad has mixed greens, tomato, croutons, and a mix of vegetables like carrots and cucumbers for just 125 milligrams of sodium. You can keep this salad low in sodium by using just a tablespoon of any of their dressings. For the option of using up to two tablespoons of dressing, use a very low sodium option like their Citrus Honey, Cilantro, Caesar, or Balsamic Vinaigrette dressings.

Applebee's Mango Fruit Smoothie

If you're looking for a treat, the Mango Fruit Smoothie at Applebees has zero milligrams of sodium, and plenty of fresh and fruity flavor packed into a 6-ounce blended non-alcoholic drink.

Red Robin Wedgie Burger

While you might think most of the sodium in a burger comes from the burger itself, a lot of it is hiding in the bun. The Wedgie Burger at Red Robin solves this problem by using fresh, crunchy lettuce to wrap the burger and all its toppings, including bacon, tomato, avocado, and onion. Even with bacon and a burger, this meal has just 620 milligrams of sodium, or 27% DV.

PF Chang's Spicy Tuna Roll

Each spicy tuna roll has just 140 milligrams of sodium, meaning you could eat half of the order (8 rolls are included) and still be well within your sodium limits for the day. Just keep in mind that the wasabi and soy sauce are notoriously high in sodium, packing a lot in just a tiny amount. Enjoy your spicy tuna roll with the side of pickled ginger instead, which has a lot of flavor, without the extra sodium.

Red Lobster Roasted Atlantic Salmon

The Today's Catch entree, roasted Atlantic Salmon is a massive piece of salmon, averaging around 14 to 16 ounces. If you opt for grilled, the sodium increases by around 1,000 milligrams, so be sure you ask for roasted, as it has just 330 milligrams per serving.

RELATED: The 9 Healthiest Dishes to Order at Red Lobster

Denny's Berry Vanilla Crepes

Breakfast foods like waffles and pancakes can be surprisingly high in sodium, but two Berry Vanilla Crepes have just 430 milligrams of sodium. This is a great option if you're watching your salt intake but craving a sweet breakfast.

Outback Steakhouse Grilled Salmon with Remoulade

Outback Steakhouse's Grilled Salmon with Remoulade has 540 milligrams of sodium or 23% DV. While this entree does come with two sides, it's hearty enough to stand as a meal itself for most people, with 660 calories and 45 grams of protein. But, if you need a little something extra with it, a side of green beans adds only 5 milligrams of sodium and can help round out the meal.

RELATED: I Tried Every Bloomin' Onion Spin-Off at Outback & the Best One Was Better Than Steak

BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse Fresh Mozzarella and Tomato Salad

For a starter salad, the Fresh Mozzarella and Tomato Salad packs a whole lot of flavor and a decent amount of fat and protein to help fill you up. The 14% DV of sodium likely comes from the balsamic glaze, which adds a huge burst of flavor, really tying this fresh salad together.

Hooters Onion Rings

For a side that won't put you over your sodium limit for the day, try the Onion Rings at Hooters! While they're seasoned, breaded, and fried, each serving has just 430 milligrams of sodium or 19% DV.

Golden Corral Bourbon Street Chicken

The sweet and savory Bourbon Street Chicken has just 350 milligrams of sodium in each 3-ounce portion, not including the rice it's often served with. A baked potato or side of buttered noodles are under 100 milligrams of sodium each if you're looking for a low-sodium side to pair with it!

Texas Roadhouse Grilled BBQ Chicken

The Grilled BBQ Chicken is a half-pound chicken breast, marinated and slathered with BBQ sauce for a ton of flavor and only 20% DV of sodium. This entree also has 46 grams of protein and just 1 gram of saturated fat, making it a filling and overall healthy menu option.

California Pizza Kitchen Wild Mushroom Pizza

"One slice of California Pizza Kitchen's Wild Mushroom Pizza has 380 mg sodium," recommends Lauren O'Connor, MS, RDN, owner of Nutri Savvy Health. While it's low in sodium, it's high in flavor, topped with  Cremini mushrooms, extra virgin olive oil, garlic, Romano & Mozzarella cheese, and scallions. You can even save 120 milligrams of sodium per slice if you choose the cauliflower crust instead of the original, bringing each slice to just 260 milligrams of sodium.

Long John Silvers Grilled Salmon

Not everything at Long John Silvers is fried; the Grilled Salmon is one of many grilled options and one that has the lowest amount of sodium, with just 406 milligrams per piece. The meal does come with two sides, most of which have more sodium than the salmon, although the applesauce and waffle fries are good choices, both with less than 50 milligrams of sodium each.

Carrabba's Italian Grill Tuscan Grilled Chicken

Tuscan Grilled Chicken features a wood-grilled chicken breast that's seasoned with olive oil and herbs, meaning it gets plenty of flavor without plenty of salt. Each serving has just 440 milligrams of sodium or 19% of the recommended daily limit. But keep in mind that the sauteed broccoli that's served on the side has a surprising 550 milligrams of sodium, so you may want to skip or split the portion.

Johnny Rockets Breakfast Potatoes

Johnny Rockets isn't known for having many low-sodium options on the menu, whether it be breakfast or lunch, but the breakfast potatoes come in at a surprising 310 milligrams per serving, making them one of the lowest sodium menu items.

IHOP Pesto Veggie Egg White Omelet With Fruit

Straight from the menu with no alterations, the Pesto Veggie Egg White Omelet is served with fresh fruit and has only 640 milligrams of sodium or 28% of the recommended daily limit. This meal is enough to fill you up and leave you satisfied with its 7 grams of fiber and 21 grams of protein.

RELATED: The 10 Best & Worst Orders at IHOP, According to Nutritionists

LongHorn Steakhouse Longhorn Salmon

A 7-ounce portion of the LongHorn Salmon has plenty of protein, healthy fats, and just 310 milligrams of sodium, or 14% DV. Even without the extra sodium, this dish has plenty of flavor from their signature bourbon marinade.

Cracker Barrel Spicy Grilled Catfish Filet

The Spicy Grilled Catfish Filet is a satisfying high protein low sodium entree at Cracker Barrel. If enjoying this as part of a meal, just be cautious of your sides as they can add up quickly. Great low-sodium side options are whole-kernel corn, applesauce, fried apples, steamed broccoli, steak fries, or seasonal fruit, which all have less than 100 milligrams of sodium each.

RELATED: The 10 Best Cracker Barrel Dishes to Order, According to Dietitians

Waffle House Egg Sandwich

"Go for the plain egg sandwich at Waffle House," says Lisa Andrews, MEd, RD, LD, owner of Sound Bites Nutrition, "the sandwich has just 320 milligrams of sodium and provides a decent dose of protein, with 10 grams." If plain egg on toast doesn't sound appealing, you can add a slice of cheese for a total of 570 milligrams of sodium, which is still only 25% DV.

On the Border Mexican Grill & Cantina Grilled Shrimp Skewer

A side of grilled shrimp skewers from On the Border has just 390 milligrams of sodium and plenty of flavor with the cilantro-lime marinade and mesquite grilled flavor. To keep your entire meal low sodium, eat them over a house salad with a splash of olive oil, adding only 190 milligrams of sodium.

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Chicken Salad Chick, which serves a variety of chicken salads, sandwiches, soups, and sides, has expanded to more than 250 restaurants since it was founded in 2008. The company just announced that it has inked 18 agreements that will see franchisees develop 53 new restaurants over the next several years. The new units will be located throughout states like Texas, Oklahoma, Illinois, Ohio, Virginia, and Maryland.

RELATED: 15 Fastest-Growing Restaurant Chains Right Now

The release also revealed that Chicken Salad Chick is aiming to open 40 new stores by the end of 2024 alone, with some slated to debut in brand-new markets like New Mexico, Maryland, and Virginia's Fairfax County. A Chicken Salad Chick representative confirmed to Eat This, Not That! that the 40 locations it aims to open in 2024 will include some of the 53 franchised restaurants it plans to develop in the coming years. Varying construction timelines may result in the rest of the 53 planned locations opening after 2024.

These new development plans were announced right on the heels of a major year of growth for Chicken Salad Chick. The chain raked in $350 in systemwide sales throughout 2023, 15% more than it saw in 2022. It opened 32 new restaurants in states including Texas, Florida, North Carolina, Georgia, and Colorado, a new market for the chain.

Additionally, Chicken Salad Chick saw major success with a new specialty sandwich called the Chick Melt, selling more than half a million between its October debut and the end of the year. The chain also bought the Atlanta bakery Piece of Cake and plans to start serving its scratch-made cakes in all of its restaurants.

RELATED: 8 Restaurant Chains That Serve the Best Chicken Salad

"Chicken Salad Chick has grown through the years with wonderful franchisees and corporate team members who share our purpose of spreading joy, enriching lives and serving others," CEO Scott Deviney said in a statement. "We accomplished another great year in 2023 with disciplined growth balanced between new and existing markets, and new and existing franchisees. We couldn't be more pleased with our brand's growth, and we look forward to a successful 2024."

Chicken Salad Chick isn't the only chain whose footprint is about to get much, much bigger.  PJ's Coffee of New Orleans recently announced plans to open more than 40 new shops in 2024 after dozens of openings in 2023. Wingstop also revealed earlier this month that it anticipates opening a whopping 270 net new restaurants across the globe this year.

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The Hawaiian term "ahi" refers to two types of tuna: bigeye and yellowfin. So, when you see your favorite seafood chain or steakhouse use "ahi" or "yellowfin," just know that both mean the same thing. The word itself has nothing to do with style of preparation or cooking temperature.

Many of the signature seafood chains around the country have ahi tuna on the menu, but there are other places you can find it, too. Steakhouses and even some more casual restaurant chains serve ahi tuna. In short, expect premium-grade tuna at these establishments, prepared in many ways: in a poke bowl, as a tartare, on top of a salad, or as an entrée.

Eddie V's Prime Seafood

Eddie V's Prime Seafood offers three unique ahi tuna dishes. On the appetizer menu, you can try its ahi tuna tartare with avocado, mango, citrus with light curry, and sesame oil. Among its selection of sushi and sashimi, you can order a plate of yellowtail sashimi with cilantro, red chiles, and ponzu. And if you want a full entrée, there's the ahi tuna seared rare with togarashi spice, pickled ginger, wasabi, and soy sauce. The ahi tuna tartare, in particular, was a standout to one customer, who noted on Tripadvisor that it was the "best Ahi Tuna Tartare ever" and was "out of this world."

RELATED: 12 Restaurant Chains That Serve the Best Seafood Towers

Bonefish Grill

The menu at Bonefish Grill features many of the popular ways of preparing and serving ahi tuna, including the tuna poke bowl. It comes served with red onions, peppers, cucumber slices, sesame seeds, and cilantro tossed in a Hawaiian poke sauce over a bed of jasmine rice. To simplify things, opt for an ahi tuna poke with red onions, peppers, cucumbers, and cilantro tossed in a Hawaiian poke sauce.

For more of a crunch, Bonefish Grill offers a tempura crunch sashimi tuna made with sushi-grade tuna seared rare and sliced with sashimi sauce and tempura crumbles. It is served with wasabi, soy sauce, and a sriracha drizzle. One customer went outside their comfort zone and "dared" to try the raw fish and shared on Tripadvisor, "It was amazing. I'm surprised by the perfection of the tuna on a very busy Saturday night."

Yard House

Restaurant chain Yard House has locations across America, serving a menu filled with small bites, salads, sandwiches, and plates. Ahi tuna fans will be pleased to see the fish appear several times on its menu, not only as an appetizer but as multiple entrée options. To start, its blackened ahi sashimi is seared rare and served with a soy vinaigrette, wasabi, and pickled ginger. Another popular appetizer choice is the poke nachos with marinated raw ahi, crispy wontons, avocado, serrano peppers, white truffle sauce, sweet soy ginger sauce, Sriracha aioli, cilantro, green onions, nori, and sesame seeds.

When it's time to move on to the main course, you have choices. Its sesame-crusted ahi tuna is seared rare and served with crispy garlic, sesame seeds, jasmine rice, charred baby broccoli, baby tomatoes, and a creamy ponzu sauce. For an even lighter meal, its ahi tuna crunchy salad comes with ahi tuna that is seared rare and blackened along with field greens, broccoli slaw, crispy wontons, cilantro, and soy vinaigrette.

RELATED: 8 Seafood Chains That Serve the Best Steaks

Chart House

You can certainly order a great steak dinner at Chart House, but that's not necessarily why customers love it. The restaurant's menu is primarily built on a foundation of great seafood options, including its selection of ahi tuna. The seared pepper ahi tuna is served with avocado, cabbage slaw, and a wonton salad. There's also the spiced ahi with furikake rice, wasabi cream, and ginger soy to heat things up. Chart House's ahi tuna is also available on the Dock to Dine portion of the menu, where it can be prepared in a number of different ways.

Legal Sea Foods

Legal Sea Foods has several locations in the Boston area. Tuna aficionados will be pleased to see a few different options on the menu, starting with the nori-chili crusted yellowfin tuna. It comes with sesame and soy roasted broccoli and sesame and cilantro jasmine rice.

From there, you can order a yellowfin tuna steak as your entrée, which can be prepared blackened or grilled with your choice of two sides. The tuna can also be added to any salad as your protein of choice. The tuna steak was a standout to one Tripadvisor reviewer, who noted that it was the "best tuna steak ever," adding, "Been looking for a good tuna steak in Boston for a while. I'll definitely be back."

RELATED: 10 Seafood Chains That Serve the Highest Quality Fish

McCormick & Schmick's

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McCormick & Schmick's is known for serving high-quality seafood, which extends to its ahi tuna. Many locations feature the fish as both an appetizer and an entrée. At the San Francisco location in Ghiradelli Square, you can even order a tasty plate of ahi Boom Boom nachos to start your meal. With taro chips as the base, the dish is topped with ahi tuna, mango, jalapeño, avocado, and Boom Boom sauce. Ahi poke also appears in the seafood tower, along with lobster, prawns, oysters, and crabs.

Ocean Prime

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For a signature seafood dining experience, head to Ocean Prime. The chain excels at fish- and steak-centric dishes, including ahi tuna. You'll find ahi tuna in a few menu items, like the ahi tuna tartare with avocado, ginger ponzu, and sesame seeds. If you prefer a salad, opt for the ahi tuna salad with mango, avocado, cashews, and a spicy sesame soy glaze.

Ocean Prime is also where you can find a poke bowl made with ahi tuna, salmon, avocado, and Sriracha vinaigrette. One reviewer on Yelp noted that the ahi tuna at Ocean Prime was "spectacular," while another Yelp reviewer added that it "had a perfect sear" and paired wonderfully with the salad.

Truluck's

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Seafood chain Truluck's has locations in several states across the U.S., including Texas, Florida, Illinois, and Washington, D.C. You'll find all the usual seafood suspects and yellowfin tuna on the menu. First up is the yellowfin tuna crudo with ponzu, avocado, and Dynamite sauce. Try Truluck's hiramasa ponzu with thinly sliced raw Dutch yellowtail tuna, tamari, citrus, and jalapeño. One satisfied customer noted in a Yelp review that the tuna served at Truluck's was delicious and "cooked perfectly."

RELATED: The #1 Healthiest Order at 8 Major Seafood Restaurants

Seamore's

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Seafood chain Seamore's offers two different ahi tuna options on the menu. It has a yellowfin tuna poke with ponzu, avocado, peanut, crispy shallots, and scallions, as well as seared sesame tuna with ginger scallion rice, bok choy, napa cabbage, and honey-kimchi glaze. Both are great lighter options when you are heading out for lunch or dinner and are in the mood for a refreshing bite of ahi.

RELATED: 11 Amazing Benefits of Eating More Fish

Smith & Wollensky

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Seafood restaurants are the most likely suspects when looking for ahi tuna, but a small selection of signature steakhouse chains also include the fish on their menus. One of those is Smith and Wollensky, which offers tuna tartare as an appetizer with cucumber salad, avocado mousse, gochujang, and crispy rice crackers. Customers can also order seared yellowfin tuna. It's prepared with nori and gochugaru-crusted and served with cucumber kimchi and coconut fried rice.

Morton's The Steakhouse

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Another steakhouse chain that serves high-quality seafood is Morton's The Steakhouse. If you happen to find yourself at one of its locations but aren't really feeling in the mood for a heavy steak dinner, don't fear. You can always order its ahi tuna poke off the menu. Or, to kick things off, if most everyone in your party is a seafood fan, split an Ocean Platter. It includes cold-water lobster tail, jumbo shrimp cocktail, crab cocktail, oysters on the half shell, and ahi tuna poke.

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This fast-growing competitor is PJ's Coffee of New Orleans, a chain that's mostly concentrated in the South aside from a select few East Coast and Midwest locations. It serves a variety of coffees, lattes, frozen drinks, energy drinks, sandwiches, and pastries, including fresh beignets in a nod to its Louisiana roots.

RELATED: The 15 Best Coffee Chains In America

According to a recent blog post on its website, PJ's opened 28 new stores last year in various states, including Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Texas, Alabama, South Carolina, Iowa, Florida, and New Jersey. This year, it plans to "outshine 2023" by opening more than 40 additional locations, the post revealed.

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These dozens of planned openings will further accelerate PJ's already rapid pace of expansion in recent years. The chain said that it doubled its total unit count in less than six years upon opening its 175th location in Pensacola, Fla., this past August. Meanwhile, coffee-loving customers have also been flocking to PJ's stores in droves. Customer visits were a whopping 91.6% higher this past November than they were in 2019, QSR Magazine reported in December 2023.

In the blog post, PJ's attributed its recent successes to both the quality of its products and the franchisees who run its shops and connect with local communities.

"As we head into 2024, we eagerly anticipate more milestones, partnerships, and the continued growth of our brand as a beacon of quality coffee and community engagement," the post read.

RELATED: 15 Fastest-Growing Restaurant Chains Right Now

PJ's isn't the only major coffee chain that's ramping up its expansion plans right now. Dutch Bros. Coffee, which opened an impressive 159 new shops in 2023, recently announced that it plans to open between 150 and 165 additional new stores in 2024. Since the company ended 2023 with 831 locations, the new openings in 2024 could push it much closer to the 1,000-unit milestone.

Starbucks is also working to further strengthen its title as the world's largest coffee chain. In November 2023, the chain revealed plans to open 17,000 additional stores by 2030. Starbucks also said that it eventually wants to expand to a whopping 55,000 locations globally, a major jump from the more than 38,000 locations it has now.

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Although lobster bisque pops up on many seafood and steakhouse restaurant menus today, it's nothing new. In fact, according to Tasting Table, this soup has roots dating back to 17th-century France when it was a popular dish for fishermen. As the story goes, these fishermen would make this soup using the shellfish they caught—shrimp, lobster, and crab—and thicken the stock using crushed shells.

Making lobster bisque isn't hard, but can be time-consuming—ordering one at a restaurant is easier than cooking it at home. From an upscale restaurant chain that puts its own spin on the delicious soup to a Japanese Hawaiian fusion spot that incorporates tasty ingredients like Thai aromatics and coconut milk, here are nine restaurants with the best lobster bisque. Don't be surprised if you're inspired to order a bowl of this tasty dish.

The Capital Grille

The Capital Grille has the best of both worlds—top-notch steaks and fresh seafood prepared to perfection. If you're near one of the upscale restaurant's locations, give the lobster bisque a try. Available in two sizes—a cup or bowl—Capital Grille's version is made in a traditional style and is garnished with fresh Maine lobster.

One X user enjoyed the Capital Grille's lobster bisque enough to write, "Had the best lobster bisque of my life at Capital Grille last night." Now that's saying something.

RELATED: The #1 Healthiest Soup at 10 Major Restaurant Chains

Eddie V's Prime Seafood

If you want a lobster bisque with some edge to it, indulge in a bowl at Eddie V's Prime Seafood, the famous seafood restaurant founded in Austin, Texas, in 2000. This chain's variation is whipped up with juicy Maine lobster, cream, and—wait for it—cognac. Order it with East Coast oysters, a bone-in rib-eye, and a side of truffled macaroni and cheese, and you're set.

"The lobster bisque soup was one of the best I ever had," shared one TripAdvisor user. "And the way it was presented was unique. Our seafood was tasty, and so were the 'sides'. I would definitely go back."

Legal Sea Foods

Compared to other lobster bisques on this list, Legal Sea Foods may be the most affordable. The chain's lobster bisque is prepared with cream sherry, leaving quite an impression on restaurantgoers. One TripAdvisor reviewer mentioned that Legal Seafoods serves the "best lobster bisque on the planet" and elaborated, "Everything was perfect. Generous and friendly staff. Quiet table. Popovers with the best apple butter ever. And… I've eaten a lot of lobster bisque. This wins the prize."

Del Frisco's Double Eagle Steakhouse

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Head to Del Frisco's Double Eagle Steakhouse for a lobster bisque that will leave an impression. This restaurant's recipe is made with crème fraîche and chopped chives. Enjoy it as a starter, or order it as a side to filet mignon or bone-in prime strip.

Many reviews on Yelp note that the lobster bisque is a must-have. "The drinks were ok, but the food was amazing. I had Lobster bisque soup and the Chilean Sea Bass with lobster fried rice; it was DELICIOUS," one Yelp reviewer shared. Another one went so far as to say, "Let me tell you, I've had lobster bisque from many upscale places, and Del Frisco wins! There [was] spoonful lumps of lobster so yummy."

Ocean Prime

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Ocean Prime is famous for its seafood dishes, so ordering this tasty soup is a no-brainer. This restaurant makes its lobster bisque with juicy butter-poached lobster, making for a savory, creamy, hearty soup that is an excellent choice for lunch or dinner. The lobster bisque is well-loved by customers, with other menu standouts including the Chilean sea bass, filet mignon, truffle macaroni and cheese, and butter cake for dessert.

"Lobster Bisque was to die for, with large pieces [of] lobster," one TripAdvisor reviewer stated. That says it all!

RELATED: I Tried Every Soup at Panera & One Can't Be Beat

Cousins Maine Lobster

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Whether you snag an order of lobster bisque at one of its food trucks or sit down to enjoy a bowl at one of its dine-in locations, the raved-about Cousins Maine Lobster is an excellent place to pick up some lobster bisque. This steamy soup is prepared with Maine lobster, a roux-thickened stock, Spanish sherry, light cream, and a sprinkling of white pepper.

That's not the only fantastic soup on offer, however. The restaurant's New England clam chowder, featuring fish stock, rendered salt pork, sautéed onions, and soft potatoes, also deserves an honorable mention.

RELATED: 9 Restaurant Chains That Serve the Best Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Truluck's

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You don't want to overlook the second-course offerings section of the menu at Truluck's—that's where you'll find the lobster bisque. Finished with sherry and tender lobster morsels, this lobster bisque is a delightful dish that will become one of your new favorite go-to orders at the chain.

"The lobster bisque is amazing. The service is always great and the atmosphere is so romantic," one Yelp reviewer mentioned. Another reviewer said, "We absolutely love this place. The service and the food are always impeccable. I would highly recommend the Lobster bisque. It's by far the best we have ever had."

RELATED: 10 Restaurant Chains That Serve the Best Chicken Soup

McCormick & Schmick's

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McCormick & Schmick's, the high-end seafood and steak restaurant renowned for its happy hour and unbeatable seafood specials, makes an excellent lobster bisque. It's available in two sizes—a cup or a bowl—and is made with hearty Maine lobster and sherry, which adds flavor and dimension to the dish. It makes an excellent starter to some of the restaurant's other menu highlights, including lump crab cakes, center-cut filet mignon, and Parmesan-crusted flounder.

Roy's

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Last but certainly not least is Roy's, the high-end American restaurant focusing on Hawaiian and Japanese fusion cuisine. Founded by James Beard Foundation award-winner Roy Yamaguchi in the late 1980s, Roy's has a menu filled with expertly prepared sushi, steak, and seafood options that perfectly combine flavor and creativity. If you want an iconic lobster bisque, Roy's version is for you. It's made with Maine lobster, Thai aromatics, a touch of red curry, and creamy coconut milk.

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Within this specific restaurant category, there are various types of eateries. There are restaurants that draw inspiration from pop culture, the environment, specific time periods, the list goes on. There are also plenty of places that offer entertainment with your meal, be it a magic show or a jousting tournament. Some spots even set themselves apart by encouraging rude service.

Whether you're looking to dine in an artistic space or fully immerse yourself in a different environment, there's a restaurant that will meet your criteria. From a chain dedicated to the "Karen" stereotype to a tiki lounge built around an indoor lagoon, here are 15 unique themed restaurants you'll want to visit at least once in your life.

Karen's Diner

Call it service with a snarl. This Australian restaurant chain prides itself on its surly staff, playing off of the "Karen" stereotype—a notoriously rude and entitled woman famously known for asking to speak to the manager.

The restaurant states on its website, "Our staff are rude and our manners are non-existent. Come on, ask for the manager… WE DARE YOU."

Decked out in retro decor, this chain serves typical diner food like burgers, wings, and milkshakes, with many of these items having comical, Karen-themed names. The alcoholic beverages are no different. Anyone up for a "You've Just Lost My Business" shooter?

While the chain is based in Australia, Karen's Diner also has locations in the United Kingdom. It has previously opened pop-ups in other countries, including the United States, and is coming to New York City on May 25 and May 26 as part of a roaming pop-up event.

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The Cauldron Co.

Double, double, toil and trouble. The Cauldron Co. brews up a magical experience that blends together science, technology, and design. One of the most popular features of this spot is the wizard-themed cocktail-making classes, which refer to drinks as "potions." During these classes, you can brew eye-catching beverages that change color, bubble, and smoke.

You can also order food outside of the classes, with menus varying by location. Some dishes on the Philadelphia location's menu include the Cauldron of Dragon Wings, Magical Cauliflower, and charcuterie boards. In addition to Philadelphia, the Cauldron Co. also operates in New York City and Chicago, as well as three locations in the United Kingdom.

Beetle House

Halloween isn't limited to one day of the year at Beetle House, which has two locations—one in New York City and another in Los Angeles. Each one offers a different experience while keeping the same concept at the center. Inspired by Tim Burton's films, Beetle House is adorned in dark, spooky decor to provide a "unique and macabre experience," according the restaurant. The New York location is smaller and more intimate, while the Los Angeles restaurant is a larger club-style space.

In addition to their à la carte menu offerings, both restaurants serve a Poltergeist Feast. This includes one appetizer, a main course, and a dessert. A few options include the Edward Burger Hands, Killer Coq Au Vin, and the Butcher's Bolognese.

Ellen's Stardust Diner

In the mood for dinner and a show? This 1950s-themed restaurant in New York City is known for its singing waitstaff, also called "Stardusters." These employees will perform as you munch on American fare like burgers, salads, and sandwiches. The restaurant also serves breakfast, opening its doors at 7 a.m. As Ellen's Stardust Diner notes, several previous Stardusters have even gone on to perform on Broadway and American Idol.

Alice's Tea Cup

Calling all Alice in Wonderland fans! New York City is home to Alice's Tea Cup, a tea house inspired by the fantasy movie and children's novel by Lewis Carroll. As you enjoy scones, sandwiches, and of course, tea, you will take in whimsical decor that brings you back to your childhood. Alice's Tea Cup currently has two Manhattan locations—Chapter I and Chapter II—plus an additional to-go bakery and café in Brooklyn.

RELATED: 7 Restaurant Chains That Serve the Best Brunch

Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar

Created by a Hollywood set designer, San Francisco's Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar is located inside the Fairmont Hotel. As guests dine around a central "lagoon," which was once the hotel's indoor swimming pool, they are immersed in a Polynesian-inspired environment.

In a 2012 episode of his Travel Channel television show The Layover, the late Anthony Bourdain called this restaurant "completely, completely awesome." He said, "This is like the greatest place in the history of the world."

The Tonga Room's menu, which is subject to change, features Asian-fusion dishes like citrus pepper chicken wings, ahi tuna poke tostada, and marinated Korean short ribs. True to theme, the restaurant also serves tiki drinks like the classic Mai Tai.

20,000 Leagues Under the Sea

Drawing inspiration from the science fiction novel and its namesake, 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea is a 16-course tasting experience in an "underwater" lounge. The meal takes place inside Lost Spirits Distillery, located at Area15, an immersive event and entertainment district in Las Vegas.

At $355 per person, this elaborate dining experience features artfully plated dishes created by chef Taylor Persh. According to the restaurant's website, most meals will last around two-and-a-half hours, with most guests spending two hours "soaking in the spirit tastings, acrobatic shows, and a distillery tour before or after dinner."

SafeHouse

Touting itself as "Milwaukee's best-kept secret," SafeHouse is a spy-themed restaurant full of authentic espionage artifacts, pop culture references, and other spy items. To access this restaurant, you must provide a password. If you don't have one, you may be asked to take a clearance test to prove you're a "friendly spy," according to SafeHouse's website. That being said, no one has ever been denied entry.

At the restaurant, you can embark on spy missions as you eat dishes like Fried C4 Cheese Curds, the Covert Chopped Salad, and Tradecraft Tacos. SafeHouse also serves signature cocktails referred to as "Stealthy Sips."

Aquarium Restaurant

This family-friendly restaurant has two locations in the Houston area, one in Denver and another in Nashville, Tenn. Guests can order meal options like seafood, fish, or steak as they dine in an aquarium with floor-to-ceiling views of colorful, tropical fish. The Nashville restaurant is currently the largest location, boasting a 200,000-gallon aquarium with more than 100 species of fish from the Caribbean Sea, Hawaii, South Pacific, and Indian Ocean.

RELATED: The 10 Best Seafood Chains in America

Space 220 Restaurant

If you're looking for an out-of-this-world dining experience, consider venturing into space. Located in Disney World's Epcot theme park, Space 220 Restaurant lets guests escape the world after taking an elevator up to a dining room with daytime and nighttime views of Earth from 220 miles up.

The menu, which features American cuisine, has numerous creatively named items like the Starry Calamari and Galactic Miso Salmon. Guests can order a prix fixe lunch for $55, which includes an appetizer and entrée. Or, they can choose the dinner option, which includes an appetizer, entrée, and a dessert for $79.

Pirate's Landing

Dining becomes an adventure at this pirate-themed restaurant, which was constructed to look like a dry-landed ship. Located in Elkin, N.C., Pirate's Landing houses various weapons, cannons, antique rugs, tapestries, and other artifacts to give guests "a feel of truly plundered treasure from the private era."

The menu features a mix of steaks, seafood, sandwiches, pasta dishes, and combination dinners. One of these is the Buccaneer's Fried Seafood Feast, which includes baby flounder, crab cake, clam strips, oysters, popcorn shrimp, and scallops.

Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.

As Forrest Gump fans likely already know, there's a chain of restaurants inspired by the Oscar-winning film. In fact, the first location in Monterey, Calif., is the first and only casual restaurant chain based on a motion picture property, as noted by Bubba Gump Shrimp. Co.

Across its 22 U.S. locations and 12 international restaurants, you can enjoy various shrimp dishes, such as shrimp cocktail, shrimp scampi, stuffed shrimp, and coconut shrimp.

Medieval Times

If you've ever wanted to travel in time, this medieval-themed dinner theater can take you back to the 11th century. With nine locations across the U.S. and one in Toronto, Canada, Medieval Times & Dinner Tournament includes a hands-on feast (yes, sans cutlery) and a jousting show.

As you watch knights battle it out, you can eat a four-course meal with dishes like roasted chicken, garlic bread, tomato bisque soup, and sweet buttered corn. For those who would like a memento, there's also a gift shop with swords, costumes, and other medieval-themed merchandise.

RELATED: 10 Best Chicken Chains in America

The Magic Castle

Unlike the other restaurants on this list, this one has an exclusivity component to it. Located in Hollywood, Calif., the Magic Castle—aka the clubhouse of the Academy of Magical Arts—only grants entry to members and their guests. However, magicians visiting from outside of the U.S. can also give out courtesy invitations.

As guests sip and dine, they can watch magic shows "that range from miracles right under your nose to full stage illusions that stun an entire room," according to the clubhouse's website. The menu  features a selection of steaks, seafood dishes, salads, and vegan entrées.

The Proud Bird

This one isn't a standalone restaurant, as it's actually a food hall with six different eateries. After you order your meal, which ranges from pizza to Asian food, you can take in views of planes landing at Los International Airport (LAX). As a space dedicated to the past, present, and future of aviation, the Proud Bird offers interactive exhibits and welcomes guests with a suspended P-40 Flying Tiger replica and aircraft memorabilia.

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